Eye mucus, often called “sleep” or “gunk,” is a natural part of your eye’s cleaning system. Your eyes constantly produce a combination of tears and mucus to lubricate the surface and trap environmental debris, old skin cells, and other waste products. During the day, blinking spreads this tear film, flushing away discharge before it hardens. However, when you sleep, blinking stops, allowing this discharge to collect and sometimes crust in the corners of your eyes or along the lash line. While a small amount of clear or pale cream-colored mucus upon waking is normal, an increase in its quantity, a change in color, or an altered texture can indicate an underlying issue.
Common Reasons for Increased Eye Mucus
An increase in eye mucus often signals that your eye is working harder to remove irritants or combat an infection. One common cause is bacterial conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, which results in yellowish or greenish, sticky discharge that can make eyelids stick together, particularly after sleep. This condition involves inflammation of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane lining your inner eyelids and covering the white part of your eye, and is often caused by bacteria.
Viral conjunctivitis, another form of pink eye, often presents with a more watery or white discharge and is frequently associated with symptoms of a common cold, such as a runny nose or sneezing. Adenovirus is a common viral culprit, and it causes inflammation of the conjunctiva. Allergic conjunctivitis, triggered by allergens like pollen, dust mites, or pet dander, causes intensely itchy, red eyes with watery or stringy, white mucus. This occurs as the immune system releases histamines in response to harmless substances, leading to inflammation and increased mucus production.
Dry eye syndrome can also lead to increased eye mucus, which appears stringy or ropy. This condition arises when your eyes do not produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too quickly due to an imbalance in their composition. As the eye attempts to compensate for dryness, it may produce more mucus, leading to a sticky residue. Blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids, especially along the lash line, can cause foamy, crusty, or pus-like yellow or green discharge. This condition can be linked to skin conditions, mites, or clogged oil glands in the eyelids, leading to irritation.
A blocked tear duct, common in infants but also occurring in adults, can cause persistent watering and a sticky, gooey discharge. When the tear drainage system is obstructed, tears cannot drain properly, leading to their pooling and mucus accumulation. In infants, this blockage is often due to an underdeveloped tear duct system or a thin membrane over the opening into the nose. In adults, blockages can result from injury, infection, or, rarely, a tumor.
Accompanying Symptoms and When to See a Doctor
While some eye mucus is normal, certain accompanying symptoms signal a more serious underlying condition requiring medical attention. If you experience sudden, severe, or unilateral (affecting only one eye) mucus production, seek professional medical advice. Changes in the color of the discharge, such as it becoming dark yellow, green, or thick and sticky, are indicators of a bacterial infection.
Other concerning symptoms include eye pain or intense discomfort, especially if accompanied by sensitivity to light (photophobia). Any sudden changes in vision, such as blurred vision or vision loss, should prompt immediate evaluation by an eye care professional. Swelling of the eyelids, increasing redness of the white part of the eye, or a persistent gritty feeling as if something is in your eye are also concerning signs.
If you wear contact lenses and develop symptoms of increased eye mucus, stop wearing them immediately and consult a doctor, as contact lens use can lead to infections like keratitis. For infants, if red, sticky eyes persist, particularly if the baby is less than 30 days old, urgent medical attention is recommended. If your symptoms do not improve within seven days or worsen despite home care, a medical consultation is appropriate for diagnosis and treatment.
Managing Eye Mucus at Home
After ruling out serious conditions or while awaiting medical advice, several general measures can help manage eye mucus and promote comfort. Gentle eye hygiene is important; use a warm, damp, clean cloth or cotton ball to carefully clean the eyelids. The warmth helps to loosen dried mucus and can soothe irritation. Always wipe from the inner corner of the eye outwards, and use a fresh cloth for each eye to prevent spreading any potential infection.
Avoiding rubbing your eyes is also beneficial, as this can worsen irritation and increase mucus production. If you wear contact lenses, remove them during periods of excessive mucus and do not wear them until your eyes are normal. Replacing old contact lenses with a new pair after recovery is recommended, as old lenses may be contaminated.
Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops, also known as artificial tears, can help keep eyes moist and reduce mucus buildup. For allergic reactions, avoiding known allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander can help minimize symptoms. This might involve washing your face and clothes after outdoor exposure or bathing before bedtime. These home measures support eye comfort but are not a substitute for professional medical diagnosis or treatment, especially if symptoms persist or worsen.